Abstract: A payload isolation system for isolating a payload from a base structure upon which the payload is supported. The payload isolation system includes: a motion constraint for maintaining a parallel relationship between the payload and the base structure; and a support for providing vertical and/or lateral support of the payload relative to the base structure such that the transmission of vertical and/or lateral vibration between the payload and the base structure are suppressed. The support means preferably exhibits nonlinear elastic characteristics in response to an effective weight of the payload. The non-linear elastic characteristics preferably include a substantially rigid characteristic at low and high levels of deformation and a compliant characteristic at intermediate levels of deformation. In yet another preferred implementation, the motion constraint means are mechanical linkages.

Abstract: A computer input device, comprising a pistol grip handle and having the functionality of a conventional computer mouse. In the preferred mode, the invention is hand-held and comprises a pistol grip with front and rear edges, left and right edges, and a top end and butt end. A thumb-operated control is located upon at least one side of the grip, in a position suitable to allow the user's thumb to engage same easily when the pistol grip is normally held. A plurality of buttons to emulate functions of conventional computer mouse buttons, such as a first button on an upper portion of the grip front edge, and a second button at a lower position upon the front edge. A third button may be included at a lower position, and each button allows the user to depress the same in a trigger-like fashion. Moreover, the device provides a latching function to allow a user to perform click and drag type functions. Such generates a continuous signal, as if a button were being depressed and held in position.